THE POTENTIAL ROLE OF TURKEY TOWARD A REGIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS ARRANGEMENT IN ASIA

Authors : Mücahit AYDIN

Pages : 23-30

Doi:10.25272/j.2149-8539.2016.2.3.03

View : 24 | Download : 10

Publication Date : 2016-12-15

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :The purpose of this paper is to discover the possibilities for establishing a  regional human right instrument and respective enforcement mechanism in  Asia and the potential role of Turkey in that regard. The examples of three  existing regional human right systems indicate that such establishments  significantly contribute to the protection and development of human rights and  freedoms. It is often argued that the distinct features of Asia hinder a concrete  regional project in terms of human rights. This account, however, ignores recent  human rights movements in the region. Recent developments strengthen the  hope toward a credible Asian human rights mechanism. It must be also noted,  even mere efforts be it political or civil to build such a system will greatly  contribute to the development of human rights by raising public awareness and  furthering capacity building. In other words, not only the goal but also the  process itself to attain this goal is highly valuable in terms of human rights  protection. Of course, political dedication is the pillar of a regional system. In  that regard, Turkey may play a crucial role in leading such efforts along with  other democratic states in the region. As a democratic country and welldeveloped  economy, together with its geopolitical position and historical ties,  Turkey should undertake concrete steps for establishment of regional  cooperation for human rights protection.
Keywords : Regional Human Rights Instruments, Sub regional Human Rights Organizations, ASEAN, AICHR, AACC, Intergovernmental Organizations, Asian Human Rights Court, National Human Rights Institutions, Human Rights Civil Society Organizations